Medical Marijuana Bill Signed Into Law

Governor Mark Dayton signed a medical marijuana bill into law Thursday, and says he hopes it will bring relief to those who need it.

It's been a long drawn out debate for state legislatures, but a medical marijuana bill has been approved by Minnesota's governor.

Thursday, Governor Dayton signed a bill that would allow certain types of medical cannabis to be manufactured and distributed in the state. The bill also sets up a registry of all the patients who are approved to receive the medications.

Supporters of the compromise bill between the House and Senate are excited about this last step. However, opponents say the bill is too restrictive.

It only allows certain patients with approved conditions to get the treatments, and some believe the restrictions leave out a lot of people with equally devastating diseases.

Supporters argue back that this is a great first step.

In a statement, Governor Mark Dayton said, "I thank everyone who worked together to craft and pass this legislation. I pray it will bring to the victims of ravaging illnesses the relief they are hoping for."

If everything goes forward as planned, medical marijuana pills and oils will be available mid-2015.

The new bill also creates a task force to examine the impact medical marijuana will have on the state.